Cattle producers will be shown how to beef up their profits at Scotland’s biennial Beef Event in the Borders later this year,
The gathering is set to attract thousands of beef farmers from all over the country to Fans farm near Earlston in Berwickshire on June 8.
The Scottish Beef Association, organisers of the event, say technical efficiency will be the theme in order to help producers ensure the long-term sustainability of their businesses.
The host farmers are Douglas and Kelda Stewart who run an extensive beef and arable enterprise extending to 2000 acres. It includes a commercial suckler herd of 400 Aberdeen-Angus cows crossed with Aberdeen-Angus bulls, with all progeny finished on the farm.
Sion Williams, the chair of the organising committee, said the Stewarts’ beef enterprise was an excellent example of an integrated mixed farming business based on home-grown feeding and the utilisation of farm yard manure for the growing of cereals and potatoes.
He added: “The high standard of technical efficiency being achieved in producing a high quality beef product, in terms of health, fertility, animal performance, output and meeting market requirements, makes Fans the ideal venue for this year’s Scottish beef event.”
Other highlights will include a farm tour, trade stands, breed society exhibits, demonstrations, grassland management and a seminar. The event will be opened by Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing.
The Clydesdale Bank is the main sponsor and their local farming manager David Hannon said the host farm was a prime example of excellence among their customer base.
“As the beef industry approaches the UK and EU changes of the next few years, it is vital that producers focus on the parts of their business which they can influence personally, whatever political and economic decisions are taken,” he said.
“That will include sourcing the best breeding stock, implementing efficient production and marketing systems and maintaining close awareness of consumer requirements.”
nnicolson@thecourier.co.uk
